In a shocking case unfolding in New York City, Steven Attanasso, a 68-year-old man described as the ‘nightmare neighbor,’ appeared in court for a bail hearing.
Accused of terrorizing his black neighbors, Attanasso’s disturbing actions include reportedly scrawling a racial slur on his door and making terroristic threats, all caught on camera.
The Courthouse Arrival:
Despite the gravity of the charges against him, Attanasso displayed an unsettling smile as he was escorted into the Kings County Supreme Court in Downtown Brooklyn.
Bail Denied:
During the bail hearing, Attanasso attempted to pay with a credit card but was denied bail for the time being.
The judge specified that cash bail could secure his release.
The charges against Attanasso include making terroristic threats as a hate crime, indicating racial bias.
Additional charges involve harassment, weapon possession, and disorderly conduct.
Legal Arguments:
In an attempt to secure Attanasso’s release, his attorney argued that he was ‘frail, not dangerous’ and should be allowed to return home pending trial.
The defense claimed that it was, in fact, Attanasso’s neighbors who had been harassing him.
Despite this argument, Judge Chun sided with the prosecution, emphasizing the severity of the threats made by Attanasso.
Bail Conditions and Neighborhood Relief:
Judge Chun set bail at $50,000, with a stipulation that if paid, Attanasso would be subject to a ‘full stay away order.’
This condition would only permit him to return home under police supervision to collect belongings.
Neighbors, who had resorted to extreme measures for their safety, expressed relief at the prospect of such restrictions.
Neighbors’ Ordeal:
Attanasso’s alleged threats and violent behavior had been documented by neighbors for over a year, with instances of him waving a knife, using a hammer on doors, and shouting racial slurs.
The NBC New York I-Team uncovered these incidents during an investigation prompted by the NYPD’s examination of a fatal arson attack in April.
Arson Suspicions and Lack of Consequences:
Attanasso is the prime suspect in the fatal arson attack investigated by the NYPD, leading to the death of a 66-year-old black veteran named Roderick Coley.
Despite multiple arrests and psychiatric hospital visits, Attanasso continued to be released.
The absence of consequences for his actions has left neighbors living in fear.
Ongoing Investigation:
The investigation into Attanasso’s alleged crimes, particularly the arson attack, is still ongoing.
The lack of eyewitnesses has hindered the filing of arson charges.
Neighbors express skepticism about the judicial process, citing previous instances where Attanasso’s brief detainment resulted in his swift release.
The case of Steven Attanasso reveals the distressing reality faced by his neighbors and the challenges in holding individuals accountable for hate crimes.
The bail hearing sheds light on the delicate balance between protecting the community and ensuring a fair legal process.
As the investigation unfolds, it underscores the urgency of addressing hate crimes and implementing measures to safeguard vulnerable communities.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn
Read Related News On TDPel Media
